Tip: Set your Snowboard Stance

“After determining your preferred forward-footing on a snowboard, you need to determine the width and binding angles so you can settle on a stance. First jump and try to land in the most stable position. You’ll likely land in a stance that’s slightly wider than your shoulders with your feet pointed outward slightly (duck stance). Set your binding on your board evenly spaced from the nose and tail so that you’re centered on your board. If you aren’t sure, start from a very centered safe stance which is 15 degrees positive on the front binding and 15 degrees negative on the back binding. Then experiment! Go for a ride to see how it feels. Your position should feel natural and allow for a good range of motion without any pain. Ride all types of conditions and situations, such as groomers, bumps, pipe, and park and make minor adjustments as necessary.”

—Tony Macri is a member of the American Association of Snowboard Instructors and head snowboard trainer at Copper Mountain in Colorado.